JOSÉ MARTÍ PARK

This park of about 550^m2, in which a white statue of José Martí stands and a Cuban flag flies, is a territory that has belonged to Cuba for about 50 years. Until diplomatic relations were restored between Cuba and the United States in 2015 and a Cuban embassy was established in Washington, it was the only Cuban territory in the United States. Rather unusual, then. But not so much because Tampa has a long common history with the Cubans who came to settle in Ybor City in the 19th century to develop cigar factories and more than 80,000 Americans of Cuban origin live in Tampa today. It was at this time that José Martí also came to Tampa to seek American support against the Spaniards with whom he was at war in Cuba. Thinker, poet, politician and revolutionary, José Martí is a true icon in Cuba where many avenues bear his name and many monuments are dedicated to him. Fidel Castro and Che Guevara were largely influenced by his works before launching a revolution in Cuba, the one that will lead to the fall of Batista in 1959. This small park is a way to learn more about a part of Cuban history while spending a pleasant moment in the shade of the trees, sometimes surrounded by chickens in the wild. The access hours are reduced but you can always have a glimpse of the park through the gates, if they are closed. The visit, although quick, is worth the detour.